Cultural Activities

⚠️EVENTBRITE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED⚠️ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/luxembourgs-summer-in-three-acts-pilgrimage-harvest-and-wine-tickets-1987782782813?aff=meetup (Ignore the 10-attendees-limit – registrations are valid through Eventbrite) **Luxembourg’s Summer in Three Acts: Pilgrimage, Harvest, and Wine** This is the **third event** of the newly launched **Bourgmeisterin: Fireside Chats** bi-monthly series – a cultural storytelling format supported by the [Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together, and Reception of Refugees ](https://mfsva.gouvernement.lu/en/.html "https://mfsva.gouvernement.lu/en/.html") and co-produced with[ ](https://www.radioara.org/)**[ARA City Radio](https://www.radioara.org/)** that runs from winter 2026 till summer 2027. The series builds on **[Bourgmeisterin](https://bourgmeisterin.com/about "https://bourgmeisterin.com/about")**, a long-running cultural storytelling project that has been exploring Luxembourg’s history, traditions, and identity for over 2.5 years. For those who missed the previous events: all events are vide-recorded as podcasts – here's the **[YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Bourgmeisterin)[📺](https://youtu.be/m_DnkOWUn4w?feature=shared "https://youtu.be/m_DnkOWUn4w?feature=shared")** to bring you up to speed😉 **\-\-\-** This Fireside Chat explores three traditions that have helped Luxembourg mark the passing of summer for centuries: 🕺🏻🥁**Hopping Procession of Echternach** – why do thousands of people still hop through the streets of Echternach every year at the end of May? 🌾**Léiffrawëschdag** – why are bouquets made from herbs, grains, onions and carrots still blessed on August 15 in Greiveldange (and many other parts of the country for that matter)? 🍷**Fiederwäissen** – and why does a cloudy, unfinished wine inspire such anticipation every autumn? In a world that moves *faster than ever*, some traditions continue to bring people together – not because they are **efficient or practical,** but because they **help us mark time, create belonging, and make sense of change.** They show how people have historically navigated beginnings, endings, uncertainty, and belonging. Together, we'll explore: * Why communities create rituals in the first place * What it means to move, celebrate, and participate as a group * How traditions help people mark the passing of time * Why certain customs survive while others disappear * And what these rituals can still teach us about community, identity, and belonging today Because sometimes the most interesting question isn't why a tradition exists. **It's why people continue returning to it.** **💃🏻Who's leading the conversation** * The evening is hosted by **[Julia Khalyavko](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-khalyavko-54a6a420b/)**, the founder of **Bourgmeisterin**, a cultural storytelling project dedicated to exploring Luxembourg’s history, traditions, and contemporary identity through articles, podcasts, and public conversations. * The discussion is joined by **[Joëlla van Donkersgoed](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joella-van-donkersgoed)**, a Dutch heritage scholar and public historian who has lived in Luxembourg for the last five years. With a background in heritage studies, and art history, she focuses on how communities connect with their past in the present. She has led several public-facing history projects during her time at the **Centre for Contemporary and Digital History (C²DH)** at the **University of Luxembourg**, helping to make local history meaningful to wider audiences. **🤝🍷🍔Stay, talk, connect** The conversation doesn’t end when the fireside chat does. **Catering and drinks will be served after the discussion**, offering space to linger, exchange thoughts, and connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed, informal setting with up to 50 other attendees. **🎥🗣️NB! Recording, publication and spoken language** * Please note that the fireside chat will be **video-recorded**. Some **before- and after-moments** – as guests arrive and leave – may also be captured. The recording will be edited into a **video-podcast episode** and published on **YouTube** as part of the Bourgmeisterin: Fireside Chats series. * The event will be held in **English**. **A big thank you to our partners:** 🎥 **Super8**, our videography partner bringing the Fireside Chats to life on screen, 📍**Silversquare Liberté**, our venue partner hosting this Fireside Chat in Luxembourg City, 📲 **Itrepide Studio** our social media partner helping us shape and share the story **Follow Bourgmeisterin [everywhere](https://linktr.ee/bourgmeisterin)!** \-\-\- 🎟️ *Admission is free thanks to the generous support of the Ministry, which makes this event accessible to all.* 🚨 *The order form includes a short pre-event survey: as this is a Ministry-funded initiative, we are required to report on certain aspects of the event, including audience demographics. Your responses help us meet these reporting obligations* 🙏

**Weekly stand-up comedy open mic night, featuring short sets from multiple comedians. FREE ENTRY!** Every Thursday at 9pm at Updown Bar ! Free tickets https://www.eventbrite.com/e/comedy-open-mic-luxembourg-tickets-1216566646589 If you want to go on stage, just show up, sign up and go up ! Follow us on instagram for the most recent events ! https://www.instagram.com/luxembourgcomedy/

**Titre :** Rejoignez-nous pour une soirée de développement personnel et de convivialité avec les Orateurs de Luxembourg ! **Description :** Vous pensez que Toastmasters, c’est seulement pour apprendre à parler en public ? Détrompez-vous ! Avec les Orateurs de Luxembourg, nos réunions offrent bien plus que cela. Venez découvrir un environnement accueillant où vous pourrez non seulement améliorer vos compétences oratoires, mais aussi : * **Développer votre écoute active** pour mieux comprendre les autres. * **Socialiser et rencontrer de nouvelles personnes** dans une atmosphère conviviale et bienveillante. * **Élargir votre cercle d’amis** et créer des liens durables. * **Accroître votre intelligence émotionnelle**, essentielle tant dans la vie professionnelle que personnelle. Que vous soyez un orateur débutant ou expérimenté, nos séances sont conçues pour vous aider à grandir, à vous sentir à l’aise face à un public et à renforcer vos interactions humaines. Chaque rencontre est une opportunité d’apprendre, de s’amuser et de se connecter. **Où :** 65, Avenue de la Gare, Luxembourg Inscrivez-vous dès maintenant sur Meetup et **principalement sur** [Easyspeak](https://tmclub.eu/view_agenda.php?t=249123) **! Nous avons hâte de vous accueillir.** Pour les membres courantes du club merci de **prendre des rôles** en particulier **meneur d’improvisation**, **évaluateurs,** **rôles transverses et tout type de discours.** **Programme:** 18h45 : Accueil des participants 19h : Début de la séance 19h - 19h40 : Roles et improvisations 19h40- 20h20 : Discours et évaluations 20h20 - 20h45 : Remise des prix et clôture de la séance Nous vous prions d'arriver quelques minutes en avance. La séance commence à l'heure indiquée.

Hello tech enthusiasts, builders, and innovators! Welcome to the next edition of LuxTechPulse & [GDG Luxembourg](https://gdg.community.dev/gdg-luxembourg/) meetup. This time, we are skipping boring theory and diving straight into the real stuff: **"What I built using AI."** No fluff—just real-world use cases, live showcases, lessons learned, and practical insights. 🎙️ **Meet the Speakers** * **PlayPrompt: a platform for kids to create games with AI** by ***[Anselmo Talotta](https://www.linkedin.com/in/anselmotalotta/)*** Anselmo will take us behind the scenes of his amazing project, PlayPrompt. You'll discover how modern AI helps the next generation turn their wild imaginations into playable games without writing a single line of code, and the technical challenges of building a platform tailored for young creators. * **Career Repo - an open-source job hunt copilot that runs entirely on your machine** by ***[Dmitrii Petukhov](https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmutti/)*** Career Repo is a local tool that scans your inbox and finds job opportunities that match your work experience and preferences. It scores each opportunity 0 to 10, and generates cover letters based on your writing style. Career Repo feels like a daily organiser – familiar, calm, always one click away, bookmarked in your browser as "Career". You return to it when something interesting in your professional life happens: a new career opportunity, an interview, a role change. All artifacts – cover letters, CV snapshots, case studies – are downloadable at any moment, ready to send to a recruiter or a partner. Over years, it becomes the single place that knows your entire professional story. * **How to build and manage a B2B SaaS with 1,000 customers worldwide with a team of three** by ***[Mike Erman](ttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikhailerman)*** Mike is the CEO of Tailride, an AI invoice automation startup with over 1,000 customers worldwide. He will showcase his AI stack for building and managing Tailride with a small team, covering everything from prototyping and design to marketing and support. 🕒 **Agenda** * **18:00 – 18:30** \| Meet\, grab a drink\, and casual networking * **18:30 – 19:40** \| Talks \+ Q&A sessions * **20:00 – 21:00** \| Open mic \(pitch your own AI project\!\) and networking > 📢 **Want to showcase your project?** If you have built something cool using AI lately—whether it's a minor automation script, a fun side project, or a full-scale startup—and want to share it during the open mic, reach out to the organizers! 📍 **Where:** We are meeting in the café on the upper floor at Independent Café. Please hit **[RSVP](https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-luxembourg-presents-what-i-built-using-ai/)** by the link so we can secure enough spots at the café! See you there to catch the tech pulse! ⚡️

**Join our monthly meetups to learn, share, and connect.** We’re proud to be part of the European House of Artificial Intelligence (hai.lu) — a platform for discussion and engagement around AI, including its role in shaping EU regulation. **Agenda** * **Monthly Digest** (15–20 min) * **Optional Thematic Presentation** (15–20 min) * **Networking** (1.5–2 hours) **Who Should Attend?** * Anyone interested in the broader implications of AI * AI and machine learning enthusiasts * Students and academics in technology fields * Software developers * Startup founders and entrepreneurs * Industry professionals **Why Attend?** * Connect with experienced professionals and pioneers in AI * Gain value whether you're just starting out or already advanced * Discover startups and emerging technologies shaping the future of AI Free entry, as always. *Note: We may take photos and videos during the event to share highlights. If you’d rather not be included, just let us know — we’ll make sure to respect your preference.*

Ready to expand your network in Luxembourg without walking into a massive corporate room alone? We are heading to our 1st official meetup in person🥂 For this event, FemFounders is linking up at the Let’z Talk Expat evening hosted by Foyer Assurances. One of our own community members alongside Enare, will be speaking on an interactive panel about navigating life, building roots, and integration challenges in Luxembourg. Afterward, there is a full complimentary networking cocktail hour. We are meeting up early to huddle, introduce ourselves, and head inside together so nobody has to network alone ⏱️ The Schedule: 17:45 – Meetup in the main lobby (FemFounders introductions & connection huddle) 18:00 – Doors open officially 18:30 – Interactive panel discussion (Cheering on our members on stage!) 19:30 – Complimentary networking cocktail hour & cultural discovery ⚠️ IMPORTANT: TWO STEPS TO ATTEND Because this is a secure corporate headquarters, RSVPing on Meetup does NOT get you past the doors. You must do both: 1. Secure your free spot on the official Foyer guest list here: https://www.foyer.lu/fr/marketing/event/letz-talk-expat 1. RSVP "Yes" on this Meetup page so we have an accurate headcount for our group lobby huddle and seating. Bring your notebook, your LinkedIn QR code for networking, and your amazing energy. We cannot wait to meet you in person 🤍 See you in the lobby at 17:45 sharp 🥂

Join us to read through a play or a script in hand. You don't need to memorise any lines. All you need is to bring your enthusiasm. No drama or stage experience is required. Open for anyone with an interest in reading out loud in a friendly environment. **Playscript:** Based on the participation the text/play will be selected hence please update your attendance in a timely manner (at least 48 hrs prior to the event). **What you will need:** \- a digital or physical copy of the text \- enthusiasm for theatre **Where:** Join in play-read at the park if the weather is nice! Fee: To be able to better arrange a place for the play reading and cover costs the events are marked for 2eur going forward. For further discussions join the WhatsApp group about theater and music: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LX8bMKifES35gDNd8g2VpW?mode=gi_t

Friday evening sketching session at Villa Vauban. Every friday Villa Vauban is free between 6-9pm. To benefit from this we willl have a monthly sketch & sip session (in that order :)) using a specific room/painting in the museum. Agenda: 6pm (early arrivals) - meeting at the reception and move to a room by 6:10 7pm - for those of us that cannot leave work earlier, I will post where to find us in whatsapp. Sketching until 8 8pm - share our sketches 8-9pm sip your favorite wine, beer etc in a bar/restaurant in the city centre. Fee: To ensure a more clear picture on the participation, there is a fee of 3 EUR per event given Fridays are more challenging to book in advance for drinks. The RSVPs will be closed 4 or 5 days prior to ensure bookings for the drinks can be finalized. Join the whatsapp group to keep informed and share your work: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CDtDO1GurPrA4ceFPePeQb

This event invites participants to explore the rich history and philosophy of tea through an immersive experience. The programme includes a tea ceremony presentation, hands-on brewing experience, and a guided tasting of three premium teas, accompanied by traditional tea snacks for a complete cultural experience. Tea to taste: 1st round — Green tea scented with jasmine blossoms 2nd round - DongDing - Light oxidized Oolong from Taiwan 3rd round - Oriental Beauty - Heavily oxidized Oolong from Taiwan **€25/person** Limited spots available.

*** we are at the outdoor bar Mikrosomos and usually at the long bench tables. they to find an organiser and say hi!! Want to practise French 🇫🇷 German 🇩🇪 English 🇬🇧 Luxembourgish 🇱🇺 — or ANY language you can find a partner for? Then join our crew of friendly expats & locals for a night of chats, laughs & global energy 🎉 In Luxembourg, speaking multiple languages is basically a superpower 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️ — but this meetup is all about connection, not perfection. Beginners, pros & “I understand but can’t speak” people — all welcome 😄 Don’t feel like practising a language? 😎 No worries — you’re STILL totally welcome! come hang out, meet people & enjoy the international vibes anyway 🥂✨ Come for the languages — stay for the laughter, friendships & drinks 🍹 ✨ What You’ll Find ✔ Super chill atmosphere 😌 ✔ Expats from everywhere 🌍 ✔ Zero pressure — just vibes ✨ ✔ “How do you say…?” moments 🤔😂 ✔ Old friends & new — ❤️ 🍹 AFTER-EXCHANGE APÉRO 🤩 Languages warm-up… Drinks cool-down… Balance restored 😌🍺 Most weeks we wander to another bar afterwards for beer, bites & bonus socialising. Just follow the organisers — they know the 🔥 hotspots 😉 🪧 HOW IT WORKS ➡️ Sit with the group for the language you want to practise ➡️ Switch groups anytime — totally chill ➡️ Rare language? Post in the group & find your match 💫 ➡️ Luxembourgish shows up too 🇱🇺 ⚠️ By attending, you agree organisers can’t be held liable for regulation violations (or accidental grammar crimes 😜)

Move, Breathe, Align 🌿 Let’s start the weekend feeling grounded, energized, and connected. We’ll meet at 07:45 at Bus stop Lavals Park Quai 2 (next to Veloh station)[location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qbsrdFP1BUekFoJ56?g_st=ic) , then walk together to a nearby park spot where we’ll practice a gentle mix of movement, yoga, stretching, balance, and breathing. The session will combine both active and relaxing elements — a balance of strength and softness, movement and stillness. No experience is needed. Just bring comfortable clothes, water, and a yoga mat. The intention is simple: to wake up the body, calm the mind, and begin the weekend feeling more present, balanced, and alive. 📍 Meeting point: Bus stop Lavals Park Quai 2 (next to Veloh station) 🕢 Meet at 07:45 🧘 Practice: 08:00–09:00 After the session, everyone is free to continue with their day. 💬 WhatsApp group for updates + community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FXXDRxOGXXtKGnMErWo48M Sessions are guided by a certified yoga teacher with a background in movement, mindfulness, and personal development.

The only Metro Park with a fire tower! **History** [Scioto Grove Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/scioto-grove/) officially became the 19th park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system when it opened to the public on May 6, 2016. Located along a scenic bend of the Scioto River in Grove City, just south of Columbus, the 620-acre park was designed to blend preservation with modern recreation. Long before it became a park, this river corridor served as a vital footpath and trade route for Indigenous communities. Decades later, the mature forests and dramatic river bluffs caught the eye of conservationists looking to expand regional green spaces. The grand opening was a major milestone, drawing over 19,000 visitors in its very first weekend. The creation of the park was made possible through a sequence of land acquisitions and strong community partnerships. In October 2009, Franklin County voters approved a critical property tax levy that funded the initial purchase of 66 acres. Shortly after, the City of Grove City generously donated nearly 193 acres of land, previously known as Talbot Park, to anchor the project. Additional parcels were acquired using state grants from the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund, successfully closing the gap between properties by December 2012. This collaborative funding model ensured that pristine wilderness areas remained completely protected from commercial development. From its inception, the park aimed to introduce innovative amenities to the regional park system, most notably the concept of "urban backpacking". Through a key partnership with the outdoor gear retailer REI Co-op, the park established the scenic REI River Trail. This trail features five rustic, reservation-only campsites along the river, specifically designed to give newcomers a safe place to practice backpacking close to home. Additionally, planners prioritized making the park fully pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs across all trails and areas. This open-pet policy uniquely distinguished Scioto Grove from many other traditional Columbus Metro Parks. As the park grew in popularity, community members established special commemorative landmarks to honor local lives. In June 2019, a dedicated memorial garden was unveiled near the park entrance in memory of Reagan Tokes, an Ohio State University student. The serene space features a central pond bordered by bright blue flowers, representing her favorite color. A primary buckeye tree stands alongside a dedicated plaque, surrounded by four additional buckeye trees to represent her immediate family members. This addition transformed a portion of the park into a meaningful place for community reflection, healing, and peace. The historical depth of the park took a significant leap forward with the relocation of a massive piece of Ohio history. In August 2023, Metro Parks officially unveiled the Keystone Forest Lookout Tower, which had been carefully moved from Jackson County, Ohio. Originally constructed in 1942 by the Aermotor Windmill Company, the 82-foot-tall metal structure spent decades guarding southern Ohio’s vast forests from devastating wildfires. Workers painstakingly disassembled, re-galvanized, and reassembled the historic landmark at Scioto Grove. Today, visitors can climb its 111 steep steps to experience a panoramic view stretching all the way to the downtown Columbus skyline. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Scioto Grove](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/SGR-map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** We will hike around 5 miles on the Overlook, REI River, Mingo, and Arrowhead Trails. While the configuration of the trails can lead us to occasionally taking longer hikes than at other parks, Scioto Grove is not generally a very strenuous place to hike. If you use hiking poles and inadvertently forget them, this is not a park where you're likely to end up caring that much. That said, Scioto Grove is one of the better Metro Parks for hiking as well as other things. They are the only Metro Park with five camping areas where you can literally pitch a tent and sleep for the night. You must contact the park and reserve these in advance; they are however free. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the Arrowhead Picnic Area, near the restrooms and playground. Arrowhead is the main picnic and parking area of the park, and it also has the only water fountain at Scioto Grove. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Grove City Brewing](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.grovecitybrewery.com/menu). They have pretty good hamburgers. I was mortified to discover that I've never had their [Grove City Hooyah](https://www.beermenus.com/beers/486553-grove-city-hooyah) before, but I will correct that during this event. The actual address of the brewery is [3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3946+Broadway,+Grove+City,+OH+43123/@39.8836912,-83.0919635,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88389b3a28d0f4ad:0x3d85c41f608406c6!8m2!3d39.8836912!4d-83.0919635!16s%2Fg%2F11g8dh6h1_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**Summary** We will play TV-style game shows at [Game Show Battle Rooms](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/columbus/) ("GSBR"). These will include *Family Feud*, *Wheel of Fortune*, and *The Price is Right*, and we will play them over the course of an hour. We ran this event for the second time back in October, and it was an even bigger hit than it was the first time we ran it the February prior. GSBR has nearly 10,000 reviews on Google and a 5-star rating. If there were any event where you were just about guaranteed to have a good time, it's this one. GSBR changes their questions and answers every month, so if you attended in October (or even if you went with another group as recently as April), you will not see any of the same questions you saw before. **The Date and Time of This Event** Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. However, if someone books the 3:00 p.m. time before I do (meaning before I have enough paid attendees), well, that's the way the cookie crumbles and we'll have to move to Plan B. That might involve trying for either one of GSBR's 1:30 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. slots, or just cancelling the Meetup altogether. We'll cross that bridge if we get to it, but be aware of these possibilities. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to whatever our actual showtime ends up being. (Hence, this meetup's 2:45 p.m. start time.) **Cost** The cost to play, per person, is $36.95 plus 8% sales tax of $2.96, plus a refundable 8% gratuity of $2.96 (see the next section for more details), for a total cost of $42.86 per person. **Mandatory Gratuity (If 20+ Participants)** If we have 20 or more participants in this event, GSBR will assess a mandatory gratuity of 8%, or $2.96 per person. If we have 20 or more attendees, GSBR will give our group an extra 15 minutes of playing time. I am collecting the gratuity up-front to prepare for the case in which we have at least 20 people. However, in the event that we do not, I will refund this $2.96 to you. In the event we have fewer than 20 people and your gratuity is refunded, your cost for the event will end up being $39.91 (instead of $42.86). I will say more below on the actual exchange of money for this event. **Drinks** GSBR does allow beverages into the game room, and they also sell some on-site. These include bottled water, soft drinks, and some alcoholic beverages. You can bring your own bottled water, too, if you want. **Cancellations and Refunds** Per GSBR's [website](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/): *If you cancel your show 5 or more days in advance of your booking time, you will receive a full refund.* *You may reduce the number of tickets and receive a refund if you provide at least 5-days’ notice.* More on this in a moment. **Number of Participants** GSBR does not run events for fewer than 6 people. I will not purchase tickets for this event with fewer than 10 paid, and I will not send out a solicitation for money without at least 12 signed up for this Meetup. More on this below. **The Actual Exchange of Money** Tickets for GSBR events are not purchased piecemeal. I will need to book our GSBR event as a bloc. This means that everyone will need to send me his or her entrance fee via either Venmo or Paypal prior to me booking our time. Anyone failing to send me his or her money will be removed by me from this event. Once 12+ people are signed up here for this Meetup, I will send out a DM through the Meetup messaging system to those 12+ participants with my Venmo/Paypal information. You will then have 72 hours to wire me your share of the money. After 72 hours, if I don't have money from you, I'll remove you from event. If I don't have money from at least 10 people, I'll refund everyone's money, and we'll either re-start the process or I'll just cancel the event. I'm not going to book any event with GSBR unless I'm reasonably certain we're going to be able to run it. Assuming I have money from 10+ people, then I will book the event through GSBR's website. If you decide to cancel and you want a refund, you ***must*** give me time to contact GSBR with at least 5 days notice. Since the date of this event is Saturday, June 27, you have to let me know not later than Sunday, June 21, to allow me time to call GSBR not later than Monday, June 22, in order to get a refund for your share. Once I have confirmation from GSBR for the refund, I will Venmo/Paypal the money back to you immediately from my account. (There will probably be a 3-5 day delay before GSBR actually processes the refund, but I will absorb the cost of the float and get your money back to you right away.) **"Hey, Eric! I just saw this event! Can I sign up late?"** Yes, but you still need to Venmo/Paypal your share of the booking fee to me, which will be $40.55. If I don't get it within 72 hours after you sign up (or time permitting for me to book you in with GSBR if you sign up last-minute), then I'll remove you from the event. **Mandatory GSBR Waiver Requirement** GSBR policies *require* that each attendee signs a liability waiver prior to the event. You can find the waiver [here](https://gameshowbattlerooms.com/questions/) (on the right-hand side toward the bottom of the page under the section "Do I Need To Sign A Waiver Form?"), and you should also be able to skip directly to the form [here](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5c473bb934d6a/web/). *You must fill out this waver in order to participate in the event*. The form is short and this really shouldn't take you more than 2 minutes, but please send me a DM if you have any issues filling out the document. **Denouement** Afterward, for those who are interested, we'll drown our sorrows or celebrate our exultations at [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/) in Hilliard. They also have extensive food options. The actual address of the brewery is [5354 Center St, 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/5354+Center+St,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@40.0339813,-83.1623519,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x883893f9f30108a7:0xbe4c8919aa69e3e7!8m2!3d40.0344541!4d-83.1598828!16s%2Fg%2F11gxsh9f_0?entry=ttu).

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. [Tickets will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄

Inspired by our successful events like "Saturday Mornings @ East Market" and other "Pot Luck in the Park" lunches, this gathering promises to be a blend of fun conversations, language exchange, and cultural insights, all while sharing wonderful foods with each other. **Please bring a dish to share and anything you would like to drink.** We will provide plates, plastic silverware and napkins. So, come hungry and ready to chat!